I borrowed this as an ebook from my library, but after reading it I think this is one of those books that can live on my shelf, ready for me to randomly page through it when I need ... something, a new idea or an old reminder. A place where I don’t know what I’m looking for until I see it.

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It took me ages to get through this book because even though it comes in at just under 130 pages, and at least half of it is filled with pictures, I had to keep stopping to take notes. I jotted down quote after quote. More importantly, though, I wrote about my thoughts on Saltz's interpretation of what makes an artist.

And that, to me, is what a great book does: it makes me think, and it helps trigger thoughts and ideas I wouldn't have had otherwise. Saltz doesn't claim to have all the answers, but his practical, down-to-earth approach to art-making ("Just do the work!") is a joy to read.

As a former writer who's transitioned to painting, I could relate to so much of what Saltz offered here. His advice is blunt yet loving, and reading HOW TO BE AN ARTIST is like sitting down with the author over a cup of coffee. I imagine his advice would be very similar in person. It all boils down to the things we all know: work, keep working, and work some more -- yet his quick quips help cement the solutions to the creative struggles so many of us deal with. ( )

Can't believe this hasn't been reviewed here. As I said to a friend of mine who also happens to be an artist: I didn't want to like this, but I did. I especially liked the first chapter where he is so beautifully explains what an artist is (hint: not a maker of decorations that hang above your sofa!, ahem, ok, sometimes a maker of decorations that hang above your sofa...). Would make an excellent gift for parents of artists, to help them understand what artists do. Having gone to art school, the drawing exercises and some of the other information was not for me, but I'm sure they would be helpful to a lot of people who want to get started with a foundation in art. Recommend. ( )